Microbiology and Molecular Genetics Department

Contact Information

Overview

Undergraduates who undertake studies in the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics receive instruction in the classroom and in state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories. If you are interested in attending Medical School or Graduate School, then majoring in Microbiology (MICR) or Molecular Genetics (MGEN) may be appropriate. Fascinating recent developments in medicine and biomedical sciences, such as stem cell research, emerging microbial infectious diseases, genetic engineering, and cancer therapeutics, have emerged from a detailed understanding of the molecular events that underlie the routine functions of cells and organisms. Microbiology majors study in detail the microbes involved in infectious disease, human health, industrial manufacturing, ecology, and basic science research. Molecular Genetics majors investigate the chemical, biological, and genetic principles that underlie all living processes at the molecular level.

Small classes, hands-on/intensive classroom laboratory experiences, and a strong commitment to undergraduate advising give students many opportunities to interact with the faculty, including a First-year Colloquium in which students meet directly with the faculty to discuss on-going research projects and contemporary issues in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics. Undergraduates are encouraged to get involved in cutting-edge research projects in the department and the College of Medicine in such areas as DNA repair, infectious diseases, bioinformatics, structural biology, developmental genetics, and other fields. Internship opportunities outside of UVM with the local hospital, Fletcher Allen Health Care, the Department of Health, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner are also available to pre-med students. Approximately 85% of MICR and MGEN majors take advantage of either research or internship opportunities.

The program is flexible enough to allow students to minor in another scientific discipline such as animal sciences, biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, medical technology, nutrition, and pharmacology -- or in a field that is altogether different. Students have graduated with minors in French, Business Administration, Psychology, and Statistics, allowing them to put together a career plan that spans a wide range of opportunities. The program is also flexible enough to allow students to experience a Study Abroad semester. For more information please email Douglas.Johnson@uvm.edu or call him at (802) 656-8203.